If you love treasure hunting at antique shops, you’ll appreciate the cool items I found at the antique and salvage shops in and around historic Franklin, IN, just south of Indianapolis. Below you’ll find my single favorite find in each shop. And don’t worry if the items are gone when you visit – you’re sure to find something equally awesome. Here are my favorites:

A journey through Franklin, Indiana, unfolds like a map to treasure for antique enthusiasts and salvage shoppers alike. With a backdrop of historic charm, this small town offers an unparalleled adventure for those pursuing unique finds. From lifelike Native American figures used in John Wayne movies to Edison Standard phonographs and salvaged cigar crates, Franklin’s eclectic assortment of shops invites a delightful exploration into the past.

The lifelike native American figures at Gallery 31 in Franklin. These native American figures were used as props in John Wayne movies from the 1930s and 1940s, then were in front of Amity Trailer Sales in the 1950s. They were in a Franklin barn when Gallery 31 found them and placed them outside their store a few years ago. They’re now resting inside.

Every shop in Franklin tells its own story, offering visitors a piece of history through its collection. Whether it’s the Edison Standard phonograph that brings back the sounds of the early 1900s or the creatively repurposed cigar crates from Vintage Whimsy that breathe life into a man cave, the thrill lies in the history and uniqueness of these finds not to mention the special old toolbox with a mirror at Pump House Antiques, which not only served its primary purpose but also held wartime memories and stories of a bygone era.

The art is made from “found” objects at Studio Stuff in Franklin. Something cool in this store is the art sculptures made from “found” objects like parts from an old kitchen mixer. This store features antiques, art, and various found pieces that artists can use to create their masterpieces.

Franklin’s charm isn’t confined to its shops; the town itself is an attraction, dotted with historic B&Bs and events like the Johnson County Antique Market. Staying at The Ashley Drake Historic Inn or The Flying Frog Bed and Breakfast immerses visitors in history, comfort, and the community’s warm embrace. It’s this spirit of discovery and the connection to history that make antique hunting in Franklin an experience that extends well beyond the purchase.

For more antique hunting, be sure to visit the Johnson County Antique Market, a popular show held one day each month at the Johnson County Fairgrounds. And if you appreciate history and uniqueness, why not plan an antique treasure hunt and stay overnight at one of the local B&Bs in Franklin, each of which is decorated with pieces that tell many stories? Click here for more information about The Ashley Drake Historic Inn and The Flying Frog Bed and Breakfast.

Franklin, Indiana, welcomes you to step back in time, where hidden gems await around every corner. With its rich history, friendly community, and a trove of antique and salvage shops, a visit here promises not just a day of shopping but an adventure into the past. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply looking for that unique decorative piece, Franklin opens its doors to all, offering treasures that tell tales and inspire stories.